Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure elected to rejuvenate the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery will remove excess fatty deposits as well as loose or sagging skin from the surrounding area of your eyes to create a more youthful appearance.

Riverside plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Ku often performs eyelid surgery in conjunction with other rejuvenation procedures such as a face lift or brow lift.

Eyelid Surgery: Is it right for you?

Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are individuals in good physical and mental health with realistic surgical expectations. The average patient is 35 years of age or older; however, individuals with a genetic propensity towards excess skin or fat around the eyes may also consider eyelid surgery.

You may be a good candidate for eyelid surgery if you meet some of the following criteria:

Excess or sagging skin that distorts the natural contour of the eyelids

Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness or bags around the eyelids

Drooping of the lower eyelids

During the pre-operative consultation process, Dr. Ku will be able to determine if you are an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery. Additionally, Dr. Ku will be available to discuss the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of surgery.

What to Expect During Your Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery is performed under local anesthesia and is generally completed in 1-3 hours, depending upon the extent of your procedure. In most cases, Dr. Ku will begin by making incisions that follow the natural lines of the eyelid. Incisions will be made in the creases of the upper lids and just below the lashes of the lower lids. Through these incisions, Dr. Ku will be able to gently separate the skin from the underlying tissue and muscle. Excess fat and sagging skin will be removed. Once surgery is complete, the incisions will be closed with very thin sutures.

Recovery and Aftercare

As the anesthesia begins to wear off, you may experience tightness or soreness around your eyelid area. You will need to keep your head elevated for several days and use cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising. Dr. Ku will provide you with specific aftercare and hygiene instructions to ensure proper healing.

Sutures are typically removed within a week of surgery. Once they’re out, the swelling and discoloration around your eyes will gradually subside, and you’ll start to look and feel much better. Most individuals are ready to resume normal everyday activities including work within 10 days following eyelid surgery.